Super Visa vs. Tourist Visa: What’s the Difference in Insurance Needs?

Canada offers multiple visa options for parents and family members wanting to visit their loved ones. But one of the most common questions we hear is: “What’s the difference between a Super Visa and a Tourist Visa?”

Both allow visits, but the stay duration, requirements, and especially the insurance needs are very different. In this blog, we break it all down so you can make the right decision — and buy the right protection.

What is a Tourist Visa?

A Visitor Visa (also called a Tourist Visa or Temporary Resident Visa – TRV) allows someone to visit Canada for tourism, family events, or short-term purposes.

• Usually allows stays of up to 6 months per entry

• Does not require mandatory insurance

• Can be extended, but re-application is often needed

• Ideal for short trips, weddings, vacations

What is a Super Visa?

The Super Visa is a special long-term visa for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It was created to allow longer, repeated visits with fewer renewals.

• Allows stays up to 2 years at a time

• Valid for up to 10 years with multiple entries

• Requires proof of private medical insurance (minimum $100,000 coverage)

• Requires proof of income from the child/sponsor

• Designed for family reunification and extended stays

The Key Difference: Insurance Requirement

Here’s the most important difference:

• Super Visa: Insurance is mandatory to even apply.

• Tourist Visa: Insurance is optional, but strongly recommended.

Super Visa Insurance Must:

• Be purchased before arrival

• Be valid for at least one year

• Be from a Canadian insurance company

• Cover emergency medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation

Why It Matters

Medical costs in Canada are high.

For both Super Visa holders and Tourist Visa visitors, a medical emergency without insurance can be financially devastating.

• ER visit: $1,000–$3,000

• Hospitalization: $3,000+ per day

• Specialist care or surgery: $10,000+

Tourist Visa visitors often skip insurance, thinking they’re staying briefly — but accidents can happen anytime. That’s why we recommend all visitors get insured, no matter the visa type.

Who Should Choose a Super Visa?

Choose a Super Visa if:

• Your parents/grandparents plan to stay more than 6 months

• You want to avoid repeat visa applications

• You meet the income requirement

• You want them to have comprehensive health coverage

Choose a Tourist Visa if:

• The visit is short (less than 6 months)

• The trip is for tourism or a single event

• You’re not ready to meet income or insurance requirements yet

How DaddySafe Helps You Choose

At DaddySafe, we specialize in both Super Visa and Visitors insurance. On our platform, you can:

• Compare policies from top-rated Canadian providers

• Filter by visa type, coverage amount, and pre-existing condition support

• See refund-friendly plans if visa gets denied

• Buy instantly online with digital delivery

Final Thoughts

Whether your loved ones are coming for a short visit or an extended stay, insurance isn’t just a formality it’s a vital layer of protection.

A Super Visa requires it. A Tourist Visa doesn’t. But in both cases, insurance could save your family thousands.

Let DaddySafe help you choose the right plan, for the right visa.

Compare. Buy. Protect.